Brian Braman, a former NFL player and Super Bowl champion with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2017, has been diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of cancer. His long-time agent, Shawn Stellat, shared that Braman, 38, is currently fighting the toughest battle of his life. Stellat highlighted Braman’s enduring strength and leadership throughout his career, noting that those qualities are now more evident as he confronts cancer.
To help cover medical expenses, Braman’s friend Williams Jones launched a GoFundMe campaign. The page reveals that Braman recently underwent CAR T-cell therapy in Seattle and began chemotherapy, along with various surgical procedures. Unfortunately, his weakened immune system has made recovery difficult. Despite these challenges, Braman remains hopeful and is exploring additional treatment options.
Braman has returned to Seattle with his family, and his fundraiser has raised nearly $50,000, surpassing the original goal of $25,000, with one of the largest donations coming from former teammate JJ Watt. Braman and Watt played together as rookies on the Houston Texans in 2011, where Braman, undrafted, beat the odds to secure a spot on the roster. After three seasons with Houston, Braman joined the Philadelphia Eagles in 2014, playing 51 games over three and a half years. He was part of the Eagles team that won Super Bowl LII in 2018, even contributing a tackle in the special teams during the victory over the New England Patriots.
Other former teammates from both the Texans and Eagles, including Duane Brown, Brian Cushing, Rasul Douglas, Brent Celek, and Emmanuel Acho, have also contributed to support Braman’s cause.
Fan Take: This story hits close to home for NFL fans because it reminds us that players, beyond their on-field heroics, face life’s toughest battles with courage and resilience. Supporting players like Brian Braman reflects the solidarity and compassion that make the NFL community more than just a sport—it’s a brotherhood that stands together through all challenges.